Educators Convene at University of Central Oklahoma for ‘Great Expectations’ Conference

NORMAN, OKLA. (Sept. 25, 2014) – More than 600 educators gathered at the University of Central Oklahoma Nigh University Center in Edmond, Okla. this week for the Fall 2014 Great Expectations Conference. The day consisted of a general session, multiple breakout sessions and a celebration of the 2013-2014 Model Schools. Great Expectations is a non-profit foundation that provides intensive professional development to teachers and administrators.

“At the Great Expectations Fall Conference, I learned so many fresh and innovative instructional strategies,” said Kellye Shuck, principal at Claremore Catalayah Elementary School. “I took lots of notes and will be preparing a packet for each teacher at our school. There is so much powerful information we can use immediately to improve our instructional delivery.”

Great Expectations conferences are devoted to personal and professional development as it pertains to being a Great Expectations teacher. During this week’s event, Great Expectations instructors trained participants in these areas:

• Classroom Management (PK-12) – Sue Early, Owasso Public Schools: Discussion, review and revisit tools to gain ideas for effective management in your classroom. The focus is on the main components of the seven keys of GE discipline philosophy.

• Real World Reading (2-6) – Joy Osborne, Mustang Public Schools: Real world reading through recipes, direction and advertisements. Preparing students for the future.

• Teacher BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) (K-8) – Roy & Kim Bartnick, Chisholm Public School: participants learn about various apps across all platforms that will aid in organization, student documentation and general usage in the classroom.

• Riding the Waves of Literacy (K-6) – Bobbi Scrivener, Jay Public Schools: Does teaching literacy intimidate you or would you like to refresh your literacy toolbox? Whether you are a novice, an expert, or somewhere in between, come be a part of this active “learn” shop. Gain a variety of strategies and resources to help students successfully ride the waves of literacy.

“I wish that every member of our faculty could attend the Great Expectations Fall Conference,” said Tressia Meeks, principal at Chickasha Bill Wallace Early Childhood Center. “It is very beneficial, and I obtained a great deal of knowledge to take back with me. Great Expectations conferences are always top-quality with the latest in educational research.”

Great Expectations emphasizes academic excellence and a climate of mutual respect. Over 44,000 educators have attended Great Expectations training since 1991, and more than 250,000 students are taught by Great Expectations teachers every year.

About Great Expectations
Great Expectations is a school transformation model that emphasizes a climate of mutual respect and academic excellence. Founded in 1991, the non-profit foundation provides intensive professional training to teachers and administrators that promote improved student self-esteem, attendance, discipline and parent participation – all of which result in improved student achievement. Great Expectations has a presence throughout Oklahoma and seven other states. For more information, visit www.greatexpectations.org.